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Compiled by Sarah Burns Feyl
Assistant University Librarian for Instructional Services
The Pace University Library is investigating
implementation of a new service model for delivery of services to students.
This “one-stop shopping” approach would allow students to be able to take
projects and research from conceptualization through delivery
(along with all the tangents that occur in-between) all in one location.
What is the “Information Commons?”
Ø An organizational model for service delivery in academic libraries to improve the quality of the undergraduate experience and promote student retention.
Ø An integration of physical space, information resources, productivity software (word processing, web page development, etc.), and support services so that users can seamlessly locate, retrieve, evaluate, and synthesize information in the creation of a project, all from one location.
Ø A place where students can obtain research, writing, tutorial, and technical assistance, write papers, tabulate data, design web pages, develop portfolios, and collaborate in groups on multimedia projects in a one-stop-shopping mode.
Ø Through single or multiple service points, a place where support and consultations are provided by reference librarians, software applications support staff, writing and study skills experts, instructional designers, and student assistants.
Ø Ideally a joint venture involving the Pace Library, the Center for Teaching, Learning and Technology, the Center for Academic Excellence, the Division of Information Technology, faculty and students.
Ø The Information Commons model has four principal objectives:
a. To integrate information technology and service delivery by generating a smooth continuum from initial research to document creation and final presentation.
b. To develop instructional settings and collaborative learning spaces to accommodate diverse pedagogical approaches and learning styles
c. To provide a full range of digital library resources, productivity software applications, and knowledgeable professional and technical support staff
d. To promote information literacy, build learning communities, and foster lifelong learning.
Where are we now?
Ø Relocation of Reference Desk closer to entrance of the Mortola Library
Ø Student Technical Assistant program underway in the Mortola Library
Ø Visit from Information Commons consultants Larry Woods and Jim Duncan, University of Iowa Libraries in October 2003
Ø Research Assistance Center currently hosting small group workshops and individual consultations in the Mortola Library
Ø Group work space (tables, whiteboard) created adjacent to the Research Assistance Center
Ø Creation of Information Commons Task Force
"A place where students can obtain research, writing, tutorial, and technical assistance, write papers, tabulate data, design web pages, develop portfolios, and collaborate in groups on multimedia projects in a one-stop-shopping mode."